Youth Leading Youth
On an island where the tide teaches rhythm and the forest whispers patience, a new generation is finding its voice. They are learning not just to listen—but to lead. In classrooms, community halls, and open fields, Lopez youth are discovering that leadership begins with connection: to themselves, to one another, and to the place they call home.
Thanks to the Tulalip Tribes Charitable Contributions Fund and San Juan County Health & Community Services, that spark of leadership grew. This year, The Lopez Island Family Resource Center (LIFRC) brought together more than 80 teens in programs designed to strengthen confidence, connection, and community—turning learning into something lived and shared.
This year also marked the launch of CharacterStrong High School Leaders, a new social-emotional learning (SEL) initiative led by Lopez teens. Over the summer, eight high school students took part in a weeklong Teen Leader Training, where they practiced communication, teamwork, and facilitation skills—all while deepening their understanding of empathy, character, and leadership.
By the end of the week, each team of teens designed and delivered their own Character Strong lesson to peers. This new cohort is now certified CharacterStrong High School Leaders.
A new CharacterStrong peer SEL leadership program, the Slopez Cafe at the Afterschool Program, will bring teen-led games, activities, challenges and out-of-school special event planning by and for Grades 5-8.
One message came through loud and clear: when youth lead, communities grow stronger. These young people aren’t just learning about leadership—they’re practicing it, modeling it, and inspiring others along the way.
As one participant shared, “It felt good to be trusted to lead. We realized that what we say and do really matters.”
We’re so excited to see what the teens and tweens will build next! Thanks to our partners, volunteers, and funders—including the Tulalip Tribes and San Juan County—for helping Lopez youth discover what’s possible when they take the lead.
By the end of the week, each team of teens designed and delivered their own Character Strong lesson to peers. This new cohort is now certified CharacterStrong High School Leaders.
